Kyoto/Osaka: Kyoto Highlights Full-Day Trip & Fushimi Inari

Explore the enchanting cultural heritage of Kyoto and Osaka on this captivating full-day journey. Witness the stunning Kinkaku-ji Temple, learn about the historic Kiyomizu-dera, and trek through the iconic Fushimi Inari Taisha shrine. This comprehensive tour offers an opportunity to explore Japan’s rich traditions, from admiring breathtaking architecture to strolling along charming streets. With comfortable transportation and an experienced guide, you’ll uncover the essence of these captivating cities. What secrets and surprises await you in this cultural odyssey?

Key Points

• A full-day trip to Kyoto’s top sights, including the Golden Pavilion, Kiyomizu-dera temple, and the iconic Fushimi Inari Taisha shrine, for £44.78 per person.
• The 10-hour tour allows for culture and opportunities to rent traditional kimonos and capture memorable photographs.
• Air-conditioned transportation is provided, and a knowledgeable guide offers insights for groups over 13 people.
• Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance, and a "Reserve now & pay later" option is offered.
• The tour has an overall rating of 4.3 out of 5, with feedback on the guide’s effectiveness and transportation quality.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The Kyoto Highlights Full-Day Trip offers a comprehensive sightseeing experience for visitors, with a full-day tour priced at £44.78 per person.

The tour lasts 10 hours and allows for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Travelers can opt for the "Reserve now & pay later" option.

The tour starts from either Kyoto Station or Osaka Nipponbashi, providing flexibility in departure locations.

With a focus on culture, the itinerary covers iconic sites like Kinkaku-ji, Kiyomizu-dera, and Fushimi Inari Taisha, offering ample opportunities to capture memorable photographs.

Itinerary Highlights

The full-day Kyoto Highlights tour takes visitors on an immersive journey through the city’s most iconic landmarks.

The tour starts from either Kyoto Station or Osaka Nipponbashi, providing convenient pickup options.

Key attractions include the stunning Kinkaku-ji, also known as the Golden Pavilion, where visitors can explore the grounds for 40 minutes.

Next, the tour moves to the historic Kiyomizu-dera temple, allowing ample time to stroll through the charming Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka streets.

The highlight is the Fushimi Inari Taisha, famous for its rows of vibrant red torii gates, where visitors can spend 70 minutes seeing the serene atmosphere.

Cultural Experiences

Along With the immersive historical experiences, the Kyoto Highlights tour also offers cultural opportunities for visitors. Guests can rent traditional kimonos at their own expense to fully embrace Kyoto’s timeless ambiance while exploring the historic streets.

The tour provides ample chances to capture iconic photographs, allowing visitors to immortalize their memories. Throughout the journey, travelers will be immersed in Kyoto’s centuries-old traditions and atmosphere, gaining a deeper appreciation for the city’s rich cultural heritage.

These cultural experiences complement the tour’s sightseeing highlights, providing a well-rounded exploration of Kyoto’s captivating blend of the past and present.

Transportation and Guide Information

To ensure a comfortable and convenient journey, the Kyoto Highlights tour provides air-conditioned transportation for participants.

Pickup and drop-off are arranged from designated meeting points, making it easy for travelers to access the tour. For groups over 13 people, a knowledgeable guide accompanies the group, providing insights and commentary throughout the day.

For smaller groups, the guide doubles as the driver, offering a personalized experience. Meeting point details are emailed to participants the night before the trip, allowing them to plan their arrival accordingly.

The itinerary may be subject to change due to unforeseen circumstances.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Important Information and Customer Feedback

Although meeting point details are sent via email the night before the trip, the itinerary may change due to unforeseen circumstances like traffic or weather.

The tour operates with an overall rating of 4.3 out of 5 based on 4 reviews. Feedback is mixed, with some comments noting guide effectiveness and transportation quality issues.

Customers should be prepared for potential itinerary adjustments and provide feedback to help improve the experience.

Despite these minor concerns, the full-day Kyoto highlights tour offers a comprehensive introduction to the city’s iconic landmarks and culture opportunities.

Exploring the Golden Pavilion (Kinkaku-ji)

As the tour’s first stop, visitors explore the Kinkaku-ji, or Golden Pavilion, for around 40 minutes. This Zen temple is renowned for its striking gold-plated pavilion that reflects in the adjoining pond. Visitors marvel at the gorgeous architecture and take photos of the iconic structure.

Key Facts
Built	1397	Rebuilt in 1955
Purpose	Zen temple	Originally a retirement villa
Architectural Style	Shinden	influenced by Chinese Song dynasty
Exterior	Covered in gold leaf	Surrounded by gardens
Significance	UNESCO World Heritage Site	National Special Historic Site

The Golden Pavilion’s serene ambiance and photogenic qualities make it a must-see on the Kyoto highlights tour.

Discovering Kiyomizu-dera and Historical Streets

After exploring the renowned Golden Pavilion, the tour continues to Kiyomizu-dera, one of Kyoto’s most iconic temples.

Perched on a hillside, the temple offers stunning views of the city. Visitors can wander the expansive temple complex, admiring the impressive main hall and the iconic wooden stage that juts out from the mountainside.

The tour also explores the historic streets of Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka, known for their traditional wooden buildings and atmospheric ambiance. Guests can capture photos at these picturesque locations and even opt to rent a kimono for an immersive cultural experience.

Trekking Through Fushimi Inari Taisha

Next, the tour takes visitors to the iconic Fushimi Inari Taisha, a Shinto shrine known for its thousands of vibrant red torii gates that wind up the mountainside.

Guests explore the stunning shrine for around 70 minutes, traversing the picturesque "Senbon Torii" or Thousand Torii Gates.

They’ll discover the spiritual significance of the torii gates and admire the intricate architecture and design.

Throughout the walk, visitors can capture breathtaking photos of the shrine’s iconic structures and enjoy Kyoto’s rich cultural heritage.

This energetic yet peaceful hike is a highlight of the Kyoto sightseeing experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

Customers are welcome to bring their own food and drinks on the tour. However, no eating or drinking is allowed on the transportation provided, as per the tour operator’s policy to maintain cleanliness and comfort for all participants.

Is Photography Allowed at All the Sites?

Photography is generally allowed at the sites on the tour, providing visitors the opportunity to capture iconic images. However, there may be some restrictions or designated photo areas, so it’s best to follow the guide’s instructions at each location.

Are There Any Opportunities to Try Local Cuisine?

The tour doesn’t explicitly include opportunities to try local cuisine. However, participants may have free time during the visit to explore the surrounding areas and sample Kyoto’s renowned culinary offerings on their own.

How Accessible Are the Sites for Individuals With Disabilities?

The tour’s accessibility varies across sites. Kinkaku-ji and Kiyomizu-dera have wheelchair-accessible paths, but Fushimi Inari’s many stairs may be challenging. The tour provider can advise on accommodations and discuss individual needs to ensure an enjoyable experience.

Can I Book a Private Tour Instead of a Group Tour?

Yes, the tour company offers a private tour option for those who prefer a more personalized experience. Customers can book a private tour instead of a group tour, though it may come at an additional cost.

The Sum Up

This full-day tour offers a comprehensive exploration of Kyoto’s cultural gems. Visitors can marvel at the stunning Golden Pavilion, enjoy the historic Kiyomizu-dera temple, and embark on a captivating trek through the iconic Fushimi Inari Taisha shrine. With comfortable transportation, the opportunity to rent traditional kimonos, and an experienced guide, this tour provides an immersive and unforgettable experience for those seeking to uncover the rich heritage of Kyoto and Osaka.

You can check if your dates are available here: